Wringer (1997)

Brilliant! One of the best children's novels ever. ( )

This is a very powerful book for both adults and children. It is a tremendous piece of children's literature. ( )

It is very sad!but awesome ( )

This is an endearing story of a boy who learns to stand up for himself. There were moments of compassion and moments of torment, both depicted with clarity and a true understanding of childhood. I loved the characterization of both male and female characters, as well as parent and child. ( )

Plot: Palmer lives in a town where life can be ideal, but he also has a fear. He fears turning 10 years old for that's the year when he will become a wringer at the annual pigeon shoot. When a pigeon flies into his life Palmer is more convinced than ever that he doesn't want to carry on this tradition. But will he find the courage to stand up for what he believes before it's too late?

Why I picked it up: Truly, it's only because I had to so I could make a fair assessment of it for the Solano Kids Read Committee. The whole descriptions of violence against the pigeons (and other animals) really go to me.

Why I kept reading: Again, only because I had to. It was a disturbing book to read. Having said that, though, I did like the character of Dorothy and the way she stood by Palmer and encouraged him even though he didn't treat her nicely for much of the book. The suspense of what Palmer would choose to do also helped spur me on to finish.

In the end: This turned out to be a better story than I thought it would. It really brought to my attention just what pressures kids face to fit in and how difficult it is to make the different choice. It reminded me to be a source of encouragement to the kids God has placed in my life. ( )